Oktra assembles a ‘blank slate’ workspace for YouTube Creative Studio

Photography courtesy of Oktra

The redesign of YouTube Creative Studio has been curated by Oktra to meet the agile needs of the in-house team. Flexible in use and contemporary in aesthetic, the multiuse office resembles a ‘blank slate’ to support staff when generating new ideas. 

Opting for an open plan scheme across a small floorplate, the design and build studio introduced mobile partitioning to facilitate zoning. When closed, the moveable walls allow a space to be split into two; when open, larger meeting spaces instantly become available. Made from cork, the walls enable workers to be visual when brainstorming by pinning images and other assets up – particularly useful in collaborative sessions.

With filmmaking a core part of YouTube’s offering, Oktra added a content production and editing suite to the rear end of the office, fitted with acoustic paneling and fixed glass walls that allow light to flow through whilst being audio-proof.  

A long communal work desk features in the centre of the office space to facilitate independent and collaborative working, as well as social activities. Next to the entrance, a bespoke curved sofa seat serves as an additional space to relax, plus a meeting point for guests. This area encompasses a mobile cork partition for privacy as and when needed. Adjacent to the welcome area is a staff breakout area and teapoint with a large central table for colleagues to come together. 

Contemporary design is instilled through sleek black finishes on the worktops, walls and columns, complemented by a poured concrete floor and exposed lighting features that nod to industrialism. Natural wood furnishings match the cork partition walls and hanging planters add greenery to an otherwise neutral office – a truly limitless space for workers to inject colour through creativity.